MALCOLM
GOODMANTHE KITEMANMy web site is intended for
everyone, for those who know nothing at all about kites, kite
enthusiasts, students seeking information for projects, etc,
etc. For whatever reason you have visited my site I hope you
will enjoy your stay and get a better understanding and insight
into this fascinating subject and the magic of kite flying.

WARNING BEFORE GOING ANY FURTHERKite flying can be contagious
and could seriously affect your bank balance.Kite flying is a harmonious blend
of culture, art and science and nearly everyone at sometime in
their lives has found enjoyment and pleasure when flying a kite.
Most still regard a kite as a childrens toyand know very
little about its origins and fascinating history.

Kites have been in existence for nearly 3000 years and have
given pleasure to millions of people over the centuries. They
have also been used for religious and ceremonial occasions, fishing,
manlifting,life saving, signalling, pulling vehicles
and experiments of all kinds, also from its humble beginning
it was the kite which led to the development of one of mankinds
greatest inventions, that of the aeroplane.

From those early days, kite flying has come a long way
and with the development of hi-tec lightweight materialsand
the enthusiasm and skills of so many kite makers, kite flying
is now one of the fastest growing pastimes/sports in the world.
In fact there are probably now more adults flying kites than
children!

The following pages will include

A guide through the historyand origins of the kite,
from its early beginnings in the Far East to its spread across
Asia and introduction into Europe.

pictures of some of my favourite kites collected over the
past 30 years which form one of the largest private and comprehensive
collections of Oriental kitesin the world, most of which
carry descriptions.

pictures and videos I have taken of kites and kite festivals
in China, Japan, Thailand, Malaysia, Indonesia and Europe. Also
some classic stunt/sports kite moments including Top of the Line,
Hawaiian Delights, Ray Bethell, Sky Dance, AirKraft, the Decorators
etc.

a section on kite surfing and power kiting.

a gallery of some of the worlds most beautiful kites and
their makers.

how to make a simple kite, the best place to launch it and
how it flies.